ABSTRACT
T here is a popular belief that chronic exercise and improved physical fitness make an individual “healthier.” Much research has been conducted with regard to chronic illnesses such as coronary heart disease and obesity, but relatively little is known about the effect of exercise on infectious diseases. Anecdotal evidence from athletes and non-athletes suggests that exercise enhances an individual’s resistance to infection. However, coaches often express concerns about an increase in the number of infectious episodes in their athletes, particularly near the end of the competitive season. These conflicting testimonials indicate a need for systematic investigations to answer important questions regarding the interactions between exercise and immune function such as:
1. Does an acute bout of exercise affect immune function?
